Kofi Cole is the nom de couteau (knife name) of an American historian of African art, Herbert M. Cole. Cole has recently transformed 40 years of studying the arts of Africa into a gallery of more than 500 miniature masks and figures. These small wood carvings are remarkably true to their traditional African models. Each sculpture is original, painstakingly carved and painted with fine detailing, and, although on average of only three to five inches, captures the essence of its prototype.

All pieces are for sale unless marked sold but in many instances Kofi may have a similar piece that is not shown on the site or could carve one on request. Feel free to contact us and ask for a particular piece.

Kofi is happy to accept special, individualized commissions. Email us atkoficole60@gmail.com with the specifications of the desired object for price estimate. Past commissions include birthday presents, a Baule spirit mate, and a tableau of masks as a commemorative award. One collector, about to give a prized piece to a museum, has asked Kofi to reproduce it , and another wants a miniature of a famous coveted piece in a museum, a piece he'd never be able to buy even if it were to come up for sale. A docent at one museum felt extremely safe around a piece he worked with daily and asked Kofi to carve him a miniature replica to keep the evil spirits away while he was at home.

There are so many uses for so many people: What's yours?

Enjoy your tour through Kofi Cole’s Gallery! If there is anyway we can help you please do not hesitate to contact us. koficole60@gmail.com

At right is a field photo taken by Herbert Cole of an Asante shrine which shows akua ma (plural of akua ba) returned to the god who empowered them to provide a safe delivery and a healthy, handsome child..

Visitors since January 2006

All contents of this website are the property of Herbert M. Cole including photos, text, and art images, and may not be used without his prior written consent.

Please check back often as this website is under heavy construction. Our apologies for the dust.